Colombia
About
Forget everything you thought you knew about Colombia. Colombia has blossomed into one of the most inviting and interesting countries to travel in South America. The people are friendly, the prices are cheap, and there is an incredible variety of trekking, climbing, ecosystems and landscapes to discover. From trekking in Los Nevados to climbing at La Mojarra, there is so much to discover.
Top Spots
Trek to La Ciudad Perdida (Lost City of Teyuna)
Santa Marta, Colombia
4.5
29.2 mi
La Ciudad Perdida is a stunning and challenging 47km hike deep in the Colombian jungle to a remote ancient city perched on a steep mountainside and surrounded by dense tropical rainforest.
The hike is typically a 5 Day journey which can only be taken with registered guide companies. There are 4 & 6 Day options also if desired. Logistics are taken care of for you with regard to the route i...
Hike Valle De Cocora in Colombia
Salento, Colombia
5.0
9.3 mi
/ 1000 ft gain
How to get there: From the nearby town of Salento, 4WDs leave from the main square whenever there are enough people to fill it. Note, if you want to stand on the bumper of a jeep for the ride, be towards the end of the line so you can snag one of those spots. The ride is approximately 20 minutes. I would recommend getting there early, around 10am, because weather is unpredictable, especially in...
Climb the Rock of Guatapé
Guatapé, Colombia
The most popular attraction near Guatape, you can pay $18,000 COP to climb the 740 steps up to the top of the rock. Your effort will be rewarded with a 360 degree view of the surrounding mountains and lake, which stretches to the horizon. After that exercise, you'll be able to chill out with some food or a beer at the top as well, there are several shops near the summit.
Visit Guatapé
Guatape, Colombia
Guatape is a vibrant town of craftsmen and artisans a short day trip from Medellin. Wander the colorful streets and admire the unique painted depictions of local life that can be found on nearly every building in the main part of town.Besides just walking around town, there is a zipline on the waterfront, boat tours on the lake, and it's a short tuk tuk ride to La Roca, where you can climb the ...
Explore Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
Cartagena, Colombia
Reaching the Castillo is easy. Just a short walk from the walled city (where most people stay), you can explore this fortress that protected Cartagena for centuries. You can wander the fortresses extensive tunnel system, see views of the entire city, or take an audio tour.
Explore Barichara
Barichara, Colombia
Barichara is a sleepy little town outside of San Gil. Wander the cobblestone streets and walk out to the viewpoint on the top of the town for magnificent views of the valley below. A great way to spend an afternoon if you're staying in San Gil (just jump on a bus at the station or ask your hostel).
Hike to El Cabo de San Juan
Santa Marta, Colombia
2.5 mi
/ 196.9 ft gain
There are multiple possibilities to start this hike, to combine it with longer treks and to stay overnight. I will describe the route that I took, but you should definitely take into consideration to stay in the park for a night or two.
Take a bus and let them drop you off at the East Entrance of the park (El Zaino). Make sure you bring your ID but leave glass bottles and alcohol at home. After...
Climb the Suesca Rocks
Suesca, Colombia
5.0
The Rocas de Suesca are well known for their climbing opportunities. But also if you don't come fully equipped, there are plenty of possibilities to explore the rocks and caves.
While driving into town, you will see a couple of climbing and outdoor companies. This is where you want to leave the car (or get off the bus) and turn right. You will immediately see the railroad tracks. Now turn left ...
Explore the Coffee Valley
Salento, Colombia
2 mi
/ 984.3 ft gain
At the first glance it looks like one big jungle, but the more you walk through it, the more you see the system, different parcels for different coffee plants and a number of different plants, fruits and vegetables.
The coffee Valley between Salento and Armenia features so many different activities that it is easy to stay here for several days. There are different options for accommodation in t...
Guides and stories
Quick links
- The best hiking trails in Colombia
- The best backpacking in Colombia
- The best camping in Colombia
- Top adventures in Colombia